Gerald Chevasson, general manager, InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa, unravels the property’s unique offerings and future plans. From its exceptional service to its commitment to creating a sense of community, Chevasson provides insights into what sets the hotel apart in Doha’s bustling hospitality scene.
QH: Tell us five reasons for guests to choose your hotel in Doha.
Chevasson: Our professional and caring staff ensure every guest has a memorable experience. Combined with the best beach in Doha, award-winning dining, and over 23 years of service excellence, we offer a quality product with a smile. Our landmark hotel provides a complete resort experience, from luxurious accommodations to dining, beach, pool, spa, and various activities, making every stay unforgettable.
QH: What are your brand values, something that no other hospitality player in Doha has?
Chevasson: Our values centre on caring for people and fostering a sense of community and family within our hotel. It’s beyond service; it’s about belonging. Our colleagues are family, and we prioritise their well-being and growth. Guests become part of our extended family, receiving tailored experiences and the utmost comfort. This commitment to warmth and inclusion sets us apart.
QH: What have been your expansions/refurbishments to your property in the past year? What about 2024 – any plans for modification/upscaling your property?
Chevasson: We are always dedicated to enhancing our guest experience through continuous renovations and improvements every year. We’ve launched new restaurants such as La Mar Beach and Novecento in 2022 and made small but significant enhancements to existing venues such as the Belgian Café just this year. Looking forward to 2024, we’re excited to announce plans to enhance our pool facilities. We strive for continuous improvement, with upgrades and enhancements that consistently exceed our guests’ expectations. We’re committed to constant innovation, ensuring that every visit is better than the last.
QH: Where do you see your property/brand in the next 2 years?
Chevasson: In the next two years, we envision our property as a premier destination for leisure travellers visiting Qatar. Aligned with the tourism board’s goals to develop leisure tourism in the region, we aim to enhance our resort-style offerings to cater to the needs of leisure guests from around the world. At InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa, we ensure that every guest has everything they need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. From health and fitness activities to resort-style fun, spa treatments, and exceptional dining options, we’re committed to providing a memorable and rejuvenating experience for our guests.
QH: Talk us through the timeless business lessons that the pandemic has taught and how your property has adapted to those.
Chevasson: We have learned the importance of the human touch, prioritising long-term thinking, caring about people, and focusing on quality and innovation. Throughout the pandemic, we have strongly emphasised the well-being of our guests and staff, ensuring their safety and comfort at every turn. We have also embraced innovation to enhance the guest experience through technology or new service offerings. Looking ahead, we remain committed to these important elements.
Short Shots
Best book read in 2023: Le Petit Prince (The Little Prince) by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Best advice received: “Eat food as medicine before you eat medicine as food.”
Go-to unwinding method: Alone time, no phone, no people. I ponder the future, seeing it as a gift. Learn from the past, live in the present, focus on what’s ahead
Favourite holiday destination: The South of France
Best hotel stayed in: The Gritti Palace in Venice
